Laboratory Technician

Job Title: Greenhouse Technician
Location: Johnston, Iowa
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM (40 hours/week)
Duration: 11+ Months
Weekend requirement: Rotational (approximately every 6 weeks)
Holiday Requirement: One company-observed holiday annually (rotational)

position Overview

The Controlled Environments Team is seeking a motivated and responsible Greenhouse Technician to support research operations at a four-acre facility in Johnston, Iowa. This role contributes to agricultural innovation by assisting with daily greenhouse functions and research activities in a safe, professional, and compliant environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform daily greenhouse plant care activities including:

  • Pollinating, watering, harvesting, and seed handling (primarily wheat and other crops)

• Assist with experiments by:

  • Collecting data and maintaining accurate records

  • Executing lab analysis requests

  • Communicating experimental logistics with process leads

• Support planning and execution of wheat breeding greenhouse experiments:

  • Prepare project requests

  • Input experimental data

  • Coordinate with internal teams

• Conduct routine greenhouse sanitation tasks:

  • Plant discarding and general cleaning

• Assist researchers with organizational and cross-functional project work related to doubled haploid crops

• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• education/experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Physiology, Molecular Biology, Entomology, Plant Pathology, or a related field
    OR

  • Minimum 3+ years of relevant experience

• Strong attention to detail and adherence to SOPs and safety protocols

• Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Basic computer proficiency:

  • MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

  • Ability to learn internal research software

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs

• Comfortable working in a warm, humid greenhouse environment with pollen exposure year-round

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks

Additional Information

• Driving Requirement: Not required

• Special Equipment: None specified

SPECTRAFORCE is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Please contact Human Resources at [email protected] if you require reasonable accommodation.